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In the heart of Liberia’s capital, Monrovia, history was made when over 35 Church Leaders from the Mano River Basin Countries—Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Cote d’Ivoire—gathered on July 18-19, 2023 at the prestigious Boulevard Palace for a Two-Day Regional Human Rights Training. The church leaders gathered to learn, share, and equip themselves with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to become effective advocates for peace, justice, and human rights within the MRU Member Countries under the auspices of the Faith and Justice Network.

The event, under the distinguished Chairmanship of the resident Bishop of the Liberia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, marks a significant milestone in the region’s pursuit of a more just and equitable society.

The training commenced with an inspiring inaugural address presented by Bishop Quire, Jr. when he emphatically called upon Church Leaders to assume a proactive role in championing the Human Rights of people within the Mano River Basin. According to the astute and well-respected Prelate, and as a member of the global faith community, he emphasized that church leaders are called to embody Christ’s love, grace, and truth by seeking justice and standing alongside those whose rights are violated.

The diverse range of speakers during the training offered invaluable insights into the intricacies of human rights advocacy. Topics ranged from the misuse of biblical texts to justify exclusion and violence, to understanding the nature and structure of operational-level Grievance Mechanisms.

The second day began with a poignant devotion led by His Grace, Archbishop BOSTON Jacques, Primate, and Internal Province of West Africa of the Anglican Church, known as the Continuing Province of West Africa (CPWA), underscoring the spiritual and moral foundation of the pursuit of human rights. The day’s discussions were marked by profound insights shared by notable and distinguished speakers who generously shared their expertise and knowledge with the church leaders.

Mr. Jefferson Knight, Director, United Methodist Human Rights Monitors/LAC, emphasizes the fundamental worth of every human being as an image-bearer of God—a reminder that all individuals deserve dignity and equal treatment.

Cllr. Benedict Sannoh, Chairman of the Human Rights Commission of the Episcopal Church of Liberia and Former Chief Justice of Liberia, highlighted the critical role of operational-level Grievance Mechanisms in ensuring fairness and justice. He stressed the need for accountability and transparency in addressing grievances

Cllr. J. Aloysius Toe, a Human Rights Activist of long-standing, the 2005 Reebok Intentional Human Rights Award Winner, and CNN “Person of the Month” in April 2005, and former Executive Director for the Defense of Human Rights (MODHAR), delved into monitoring mechanisms and general principles governing imprisonment, aligning national and international laws to protect the rights of those incarcerated. The meaningful exchanges of ideals and experiences provided valuable insights that will undoubtedly strengthen the collective efforts of church leaders in advancing human rights in our communities and beyond.

At the close of the meticulous planned training and its seamless execution, the atmosphere was filled with an air of accomplishment and enthusiasm as Bishop Samuel J. Quire, Jr. certificated and commissioned 19 Human Rights Monitors to serve within the churches in the MRU, saying, “we have taken a significant step towards promoting and protecting the dignity, equality, and well-being of all individuals, as enshrined in international human rights law”. The highlight of the event was the certification of Human Rights Monitors—dedicated individuals committed to upholding human rights principles and advocating for change in their communities. The participants proudly received their certifications, carrying with them the responsibility to be voices for the voiceless and champions of social justice.

The Regional Human Rights Training for Church Leaders in the Mano River Basin was a remarkable journey of learning, reflection, and empowerment. With an unwavering commitment to amplifying citizens’ adherence to human rights standards, the Church Leaders left the event inspired and equipped to interrupt and transform systems of exploitation and oppression.

As they return to their respective congregations and communities, the impact of this training will be felt far and wide. By embracing the principles of peace, justice, and human rights, these advocates of change will undoubtedly create a positive ripple effect, fostering flourishing lives for all.

It’s a mission for justice! “In a world that often grapples with inequalities and injustice, the efforts of these Church Leaders will shine as beacons of hope, lighting the way towards a brighter, more equitable future for the Mano River Basin and beyond”, says. Rev. Dr. Tolbert Thomas Jallah, Jr., Regional Executive Director, The Faith and Justice Network of the Mano River Basin Countries of West Africa. The seeds of change have been sown, and we eagerly await the fruits of their labor in the pursuit of a world where human rights are respected and upheld for all” in his concluding remarks to bid the participants farewell.